Science Adventures in Japan

My two months in Japan hosted by Nagoya University’s Research Center for Materials Science are almost at an end. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and have learned a lot, both about Japanese culture and the remarkable science going on here in Nagoya and the rest of Japan.

My principal host on this adventure is Prof. Kunio Awaga, whose work sits at the interface between coordination chemistry and materials science, has been an exceptional guide. Our many lunches and “tea-times” have been a welcome tether during my stay. I have also appreciated the opportunity to learn more about the rest of the exceptional science going on in Nagoya, including emerging collaborations with the groups of Prof. Susumu Saito and Prof. Shigehiro Yamaguchi which seem super interesting and impactful.

I’ve also had the opportunity to explore beyond Nagoya, with excellent experiences talking science with Prof. Mitsuo Sawamoto at Chubu University, Prof. Makoto Ouchi (and his excellent – and humorous – colleagues!) at Kyoto University and Assistant Prof. Yasuhiro Kohsaka at Shinshu University. Hopefully some super collaborations to come out of those trips as well, especially with Yasuhiro’s interesting monomer collection!

Thanks to everyone who has been an exceptional host during my time here in Japan – I’m very appreciative of the hospitality and looking forward to my next visit!